Hauora Connector - Māori
Otago University
STUDENT WELLBEING HUB | TE POU WHIRINAKI
STUDENT SERVICES | TE RATONGA ĀKONGA
About our team/Mō te tīma
At the University of Otago, our role is to create a supportive, vibrant, and inclusive student experience that everyone can enjoy. Our dedicated staff are committed to delivering high-quality, student-centred services that are well-coordinated and seamlessly integrated with the broader university community.
The Student Services Division works alongside the university community to offer practical, accessible, and high-quality support including career advice, support for Māori and Pacific Islands students, disability-related study assistance, recreation, and Student Health.
The role/Te mahi
As the Hauora Connector Māori, you will play a vital role in advancing the wellbeing, achievement, and holistic success of tauira Māori at the University. Guided by kaupapa Māori values, you will foster a culturally safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where tauira Māori feel a strong sense of belonging, connection, and support. Your mahi will align with and actively contribute to the University's strategic vision for Māori success and equity.
You will champion initiatives that uplift tauira Māori, while continually seeking opportunities for improvement to ensure services remain responsive to their evolving needs. Collaboration will be central to your work - building strong, respectful relationships with colleagues, academic and professional staff, and key university stakeholders. Through clear communication and collective effort, you will ensure that hauora support is delivered effectively, in a way that is mana-enhancing and grounded in tikanga and mātauranga Māori.
This role also involves key administrative functions, including documenting service delivery, contributing to strategic reporting, and supporting the coordination of pastoral care - ensuring tauira Māori are supported with holistic, high-quality care throughout their academic journey.
Your skills and experience/Kā pūkeka me kā wheako
You will bring proven expertise in applying Whānau Ora practice models and consistently demonstrate the values of tika (doing what is right), pono (integrity), and aroha (compassion) in your leadership and everyday mahi.
A tertiary qualification in a relevant field is desirable, alongside experience that shows your ability to uplift and empower individuals and whānau navigating complex challenges. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in Kaupapa Māori services and a deep understanding of Mātauraka Māori (Māori knowledge and worldview).
Other key skills and experience required include the following:
- Strong relationship-building skills (whakawhanaukataka) - ability to enhance individual mana
- Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Te Ao and Mātauraka Māori, and Te Reo Māori, or a willingness to learn
- Clear and effective communication skills, including report and referral writing
- Proficiency in digital tools for documentation, data management, and virtual communication
- Flexible, adaptable, and professional approach
- In-depth knowledge of local community support networks and agencies
- Strong understanding of the Pastoral Care Code
- Awareness of equity and inclusion issues in tertiary education
Further details/Pūroko
This is a permanent, full-time (37.5 hours per week) position based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.
The appointment range for this role is $80,749 to 85,649. Top of the range is $100,776 per annum.
You must have the right to live and work in Aotearoa, New Zealand to be considered for this position.
Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka | University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people, and behaviours. We welcome the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills, and perspectives.
Application/Tono
To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2501055 will close on Sunday, 27 July 2025.
APPLICATION INFORMATION
To view all current vacancies and to apply online go to: www.otago.ac.nz/jobs
Equal opportunity in employment is University policy.
E tautoko ana Te Whare Wananga o Otago i te kaupapa whakaorite whiwhinga mahi.
